Shakib Al Hasan has carved a reputation for himself as one of Bangladesh’s most dependable cricketers over the years. He has punched above his weight on several occasions and has been an asset for the national team. Shakib has arguably become an indispensable member of the lineup. However, the all-rounder has gone through a tumultuous phase in recent times.

The Khulna-born cricketer sustained a finger injury following which he was left out of the Bangladesh Test squad for their recently concluded Test series against Sri Lanka. In his absence, the captaincy responsibility was handed over to Mahmadullah. Nevertheless, he was named in the 15-man squad for the T20 International series against the Lankans. To Bangladesh’s agony, Shakib ruled out his participation in the series.

More time for Shakib

As per reports in thedailystar.net, Shakib made the announcement after he was crowned as the brand ambassador for the Anti-Corruption Commission (Durniti Domon Commission). “There is still no official statement regarding this issue but the doctor has told me that the injury will take another two weeks to heal. So, if that is the case then maybe it is unlikely that I will play in the T20 series,” the 30-year-old said.

Yesterday, his bandage from his finger was removed in order for the doctors to examine the injured part. However, the injury hasn’t quite healed completely because of which Shakib needs further rest and is unlikely to take part in T20I series against the visitors. Bangladesh had an abysmal outing in the Test series against Sri Lanka.

After they managed to salvage a draw in Chittagong, the Tigers slumped to a hefty defeat by 215 runs in the second Test in Dhaka. Subsequently, they lost the series. With Shakib’s return to the squad, the team might have hoped to turn their fortunes around. However, his bruised finger sparked as a huge blow for the hosts ahead of the T20I series which starts on February 15 at Mirpur.